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Minneapolis beaches face increased closures due to rising bacteria levels linked to heavy rainfall. Nearly half of the city's beaches have closed at least once this season, with Lake Hiawatha beach closed for six weeks. Park Board officials emphasize the importance of water safety amid climate change impacts.
Hennepin County commissioners are poised to reclaim oversight of Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) amid ongoing financial struggles, with a final vote expected on August 12. Union workers support the move, citing a need for greater financial oversight, while hospital leaders argue that governance is not the core issue. The hospital faces a $35 million budget gap, prompting calls for urgent action to ensure its operations continue.
Federal agents conducted a raid at Las Cuatros Milpas restaurant in Minneapolis on June 3 as part of a larger operation targeting human and drug trafficking. The raid led to protests, with no arrests made at the scene, although restaurant owner Francisco Estrada-Deltaro was later detained at his home for illegally re-entering the country. Local officials criticized the law enforcement response, prompting calls for a review of police actions in relation to sanctuary city policies.
A Minneapolis city auditor confirmed that police did not violate the city’s separation ordinance during a federal raid at a Mexican restaurant in June. The audit highlighted communication failures among city officials, who misrepresented the operation as an immigration raid, raising concerns among residents and immigrant-rights activists.
Minneapolis police seek public assistance to locate 12-year-old Victoria Alexandria Jackson, missing since Saturday night. She was last seen near Minnehaha Falls, wearing distinctive clothing and is diabetic, requiring an insulin pump. Authorities urge anyone with information to call 911 immediately.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey's re-election campaign raised over $539,000 this year, breaking fundraising records for mayoral campaigns in the city. His opponent, Sen. Omar Fateh, reported $213,000 raised but has significantly less cash on hand. The citywide elections are set for November 4.
Hennepin Healthcare System board members oppose a county proposal to dissolve their board and take over HCMC, arguing it prioritizes politics over patient care. Board Chair Mohamed Omar emphasizes the hospital's financial crisis stems from serving uninsured patients, not governance issues. A critical vote on this governance change is expected on August 12.
Minneapolis ranked 11th among 125 cities worldwide for air quality, improving from fifth place. The air quality index (AQI) dropped from 107 to 97, still classified as unhealthy for sensitive individuals. Smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to impact air quality, prompting extended alerts from local officials.
Minneapolis Public Schools' summer American Indian STEAM program engages nearly 50 students in Native American history and activism. The curriculum emphasizes self-reliance and water protection, featuring activities like gardening and art projects. Approximately half of the participants identify as Native American, highlighting the program's cultural significance.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board will no longer seek repayment of over $13,000 in maternity leave benefits from former park worker Indica Medeiros. This decision follows the announcement of a policy change in anticipation of Minnesota's new Paid Family Leave law, which prohibits making benefits conditional on returning to work.